High soybean prices in Zambia and Malawi are jeopardizing poultry production due to market concentration and climate-related challenges. Poultry feed costs are significantly influenced by soybean prices, impacting the ability of small producers to compete. Urgent measures are needed to address competition issues and enhance market resilience in the region.
In the context of food security, poultry serves as a vital protein source for the expanding populations in East and Southern Africa, heavily reliant on soybeans for chicken feed. However, the soybean market dynamics in Zambia and Malawi present significant challenges to poultry production in the region. Poultry feed constitutes 60-70% of overall production costs, thus fluctuations in soybean prices directly impact poultry affordability and producer competitiveness, particularly affecting smaller independent farmers who lack market power.
In conclusion, the escalating soybean prices in Zambia and Malawi threaten poultry production viability due to market concentration and adverse climate factors. The implications of these price increases on poultry production underscore the necessity for enhanced competition and monitoring mechanisms. A regional approach aimed at fostering market resilience and assisting small-scale producers is critical to securing the poultry industry’s future in East and Southern Africa.
Original Source: theconversation.com
